Here are a few traditional Prayers and Blessings that can be used before or after meals:
Traditional Blessing Before Meals:
"Bless us O Lord, and these Thy gifts, which we are about to receive, through Christ our Lord. Amen."
Traditional Blessing After Meals:
"We give you thanks O Lord, for these and all Thy gifts, which we have received through Christ our Lord. And, may the souls of the Faithful Departed, through the Mercy of God, Rest in Peace. Amen."
A Child's Prayer:
"God is great, God is Good, Let us praise God for this table and food."
A Refectory Prayer:
"The eyes of all look to You, O Lord. You give them their food in due season. You open your hand and fill every living thing with your blessing. Sanctify us, we beseech You, through word and prayer; and give Your blessing to these gifts which of Your bounty we are about to receive. Through Christ our Lord. Amen."
A Refectory Prayer
"Bless, O Christ God, the food and drink of your servants, for You are holy, now and always and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen."
Blessing Prayer in Latin:
Oremus. Benedic, Domine, nos et haec tua dona, quae de tua largitate sumus sumpturi. Per Christum Dominum nostrum. Amen.
Blessing After Meal in Latin:
Agimus tibi gratias, omnipotens Deus, pro universis beneficiis tuis, qui vivis et regnas in saecula saeculorum. Amen.
Spontaneous Prayer:
Grant Your blessings to this food, that it may nourish us and strengthen us to do Your will and to serve those who go without.
A Father Leo Prayer:
Loving Father, we thank You for the family gathered around the table, the friends who extend your goodness, the food which nourishes our bodies and the Faith that strengthens our souls. Keep us ever mindful of these blessings, and may this food inspire us to bring these blessings to those who go without family, friends, food and faith. We ask all of this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
